Maintaining your thermal or direct thermal printer

Read your printer's manual for specific tips

Printhead build-up is a common occurrence when printing with thermal transfer and direct thermal printers. Premature printhead failure can be avoided with regular cleaning. Dirt and residue can deposit and build over time on the printhead. Without regular cleaning, the residue could potentially become permanent and cause a "barrier" between the printhead and your labels, causing drastically reduced print quality. Some popular methods to clean the printhead are detailed below.

You can use Isopropyl alcohol or cleaning cards to clean your printhead

Isopropyl Alcohol

Cleaning Cards

Thermal ribbons with built-in printhead cleaners

Regardless of which method is used, the thermal printhead on your printer should be cleaned each time you change the ribbon or the label roll. During the cleaning process, it is important to note that you should avoid touching the printhead anywhere except the edges. Even the lightest touch could potentially damage the printhead glass. Regular cleaning will ensure that you continue to receive consistently excellent printing results while also preserving your printhead from premature failure.

In addition to the suggestions listed above, you may want to inquire with the manufacturer of your printer about a yearly preventative maintenance program. Services such as these will provide a yearly checkup by an expert, and will certainly elongate the lifespan of your thermal transfer or direct thermal printer.